Semarang – The Shipbuilding Construction Engineering Technology Study Program (TRKP), Vocational School of Diponegoro University, has undertaken a revitalization and expansion of its Welding School Workshop located within the Vocational School workshop building. The upgraded facility has been officially utilized since the beginning of the even semester of the 2025/2026 Academic Year, reflecting the institution’s commitment to strengthening industry-based vocational education.
The revitalization includes the addition of a mezzanine area on the southern side of the workshop building. This newly developed space functions as a supporting theoretical learning area, a technical discussion room, and a safer, more structured observation platform for welding processes. In addition, the project involved reconfiguring the layout of the welding practice area, improving ventilation and lighting systems, and upgrading several welding tools to meet shipyard industry standards.
The Head of the TRKP Study Program, Mohd. Ridwan, emphasized that the facility upgrade is part of a strategic effort to strengthen students’ competencies, particularly in ship welding, which is a core competency of TRKP graduates. He highlighted that vocational education requires strong technical skills; therefore, learning facilities must continuously evolve in line with technological advancements and industrial standards.
“Students must be equipped with practical experiences that closely resemble real industrial environments. Therefore, the workshop should be designed to simulate actual working conditions in the shipbuilding industry,” he stated.
The revitalization process also incorporated input from industry partners who have been actively involved in student internships and competency certification programs.
Located within the Vocational School complex at the Undip Semarang campus, the Welding School Workshop now features a more optimized spatial arrangement. The ground floor remains dedicated to welding practice, while the mezzanine serves as a preparatory instruction area where lecturers can deliver technical briefings before students engage in hands-on activities. This instructional model is expected to enhance learning effectiveness while minimizing operational errors.
The revitalization was carried out in several stages, including spatial design planning, mezzanine construction, and workspace reorganization. Safety considerations were prioritized due to the use of heavy equipment and the risks associated with welding activities, such as sparks and fumes. The improved ventilation system ensures better air circulation and reduces exposure to welding fumes, while enhanced lighting supports high-precision work.
The inauguration of the upgraded facility coincided with the start of the even semester of the 2025/2026 Academic Year, allowing students to immediately benefit from the improved infrastructure. Both junior and senior students now experience a more conducive and industry-relevant learning environment.
Through this initiative, the TRKP Study Program of the Vocational School at Diponegoro University reaffirms its commitment to producing competent, professional graduates who are well-prepared to compete in both national and international shipbuilding industries.